The “jumbo squid” have once again returned to Southern California. As of the end of September, they have been spotted in droves along the coast from San Diego to Santa Barbara and have even been washing up on the shores.
These creatures are known as Humboldt squid, and they can grow up to 6 feet in length and weigh up to 100 pounds, according to the Smithsonian National Zoo.
The squid traditionally live in deep South American waters, from 660 to 2,300 feet, which makes it difficult for scientists to observe them.
At night, however, they come closer to the surface to feed on other cephalopods such as shrimp, mollusks and lanternfish, according to the Smithsonian National Zoo.
The squid undertake mass migrations in order to feed and spawn, which explains their presence in the shallower, coastal waters.
This isn’t the first time Humboldt squid have migrated to Southern California.
In 2007, the Ventura Country Star reported that these hordes of squid ranged from 20 to more than 40 pounds. This year they are significantly smaller, ranging from around 5 to 10 pounds.
A smaller size, however, does not reduce the shock of discovering tons of squid washed up on the beach.
Between 100 and 200 squid were found on San Clemente beaches Sept. 22 according to the Orange County Register. There have also been reports of squid dying off in Corona del Mar and La Jolla. Experts say there is no cause for alarm.
The average lifespan of a Humboldt squid is one year, and according to the Smithsonian National Zoo, they only reproduce once in a lifetime. They are believed to die en masse after spawning, which is considered to be the main cause for the appearance of the dead squid.
It is also possible that while feeding in shallower waters, some of the squid got caught in the surf during high tide, according to the Corona del Mar Today.
In either case, the squid die-off has been deemed a natural phenomenon and is no cause for concern.
On the other hand, the presence of the swarms of squid has been very well received by fishing enthusiasts.
Large groups of squid have been reported from San Diego to Ventura County, and scuba divers have also had a chance to observe these rare creatures.
However, it is important to remain cautious when handling Humboldt squid. According to the Smithsonian National Zoo, they are very aggressive, and though it is rare for them to attack humans, it is not unheard of. This is why they have earned the nickname “Diablos Rojos” from Mexican shrimpers: “Red Devils.”
The Humboldt squid could migrate further north or return to the depths as quickly as they arrived, so it is important to take advantage of their rare appearance while it’s still possible.